Wales recognised as an independent state – in the Marvel universe

15th February 2018

Wales’ flag can be seen on the right. Picture by Rhys Davies on Twitter

Eagle-eyed viewers have spotted that Wales is an independent state in the latest Marvel superhero film, Black Panther.

In a scene set at the United Nations General Assembly Wales’ flag can be seen fluttering next to the Netherlands, Japan, the United States and other countries.

Twitter user Leigh Jones noted that the special effects on the film were done by Industrial Light & Magic, a division of the company Lucasfilm whose general manager, Lynwen Brennan, was born in Pembrokeshire.

It may also be a nod to one of Marvel’s least well-known superheroes – y Ddraig Goch.

The film follows the exploits of the king of the African nation of Wakanda as he attempts to defend his homeland from its enemies and prevent it being dragged into a world war.

The film is the first time a black superhero has been placed front-and-centre of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and has been praised for its Afrocentric perspective.